Mandopop at the Oriental Residence Bangkok

One of the best meals I had in Bangkok was my dim sum lunch at Mandopop in the Oriental Residence on Wireless Road. Nestled among the fancy embassies, this elegant hotel and Chinese restaurant couldn’t have a better location – shopping is just around the corner and the Ploenchit  skytrain is only a five minute walk.

The vibe at Mandopop is elegant and chic, yet comfortable from the moment you enter. Floor to ceiling windows showcase the antique Chinese décor and pop art, and a dramatic bar is anchored by an open dim sum kitchen.

The Mandopop menu puts a contemporary twist on dim sum and I loved every dumpling!  All were light and tasty and so juicy that my chopstick skills were definitely put to the test… When you go, don’t miss the steamed scallop dumplings. Oh yuuuuummmmeee! Of course there’s more to the menu than dim sum. I can’t wait to go back for dinner and order foie gras, lamb, duck….  

After lunch I took a peek at the hotel rooms and suites. Actually, it’s unfair to describe this elegant residence as a hotel. Even the smallest accommodation is a spacious Jr. Suite with its own full kitchenette. There are also one to three bedroom units, and all are glamorous with dark hardwood floors, marble bathrooms, and all the conveniences and amenities you expect in a five-star dwelling .  Most units, as well as the fitness center and pool, overlook the US Embassy gardens. 

 

More restaurant faves in Bangkok:

ERAWAN CAFE, Erawan Plaza

            Chic, cool, modern and home to great salads, light meals and fab Thai iced tea, this is a good spot for a break while shopping near Erawan Shrine and CentralWorld. Enter behind the Shrine, go up the escalator, turn right and you're there.

SIAM PARAGON, the Food Court

        This massive venue will satisfy all your cravings, from McDonalds and Dairy Queen (28 cents/9baht for a single dip cone!) to upscale Thai dishes. There's takeaway, eat in, and lotsa gawking. There are more upscale restaurants on the upper floors of Siam Paragon; Floor four has some good choices.

 

SPICE MARKET, in the Four Seasons Hotel

       Featuring authentic Thai cuisine, Spice Market is a favorite among locals as well as visitors; it's always my first dinner stop in Bangkok, regardless of where I'm staying. The menu includes a wide variety of fish, pork, beef and chicken dishes, along with unique Thai fresh fruits and exotic cocktails and desserts. I recommend the corn fritters, stir-fried morning glory and soft shell crab. Spice Market is open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 

CELEDON, in the Sukhothai Hotel

         This ultra-chic restaurant is located in the middle of a lotus-pond with open air terraces overlooking the water. With an extensive a la carte menu, Celedon offers a taste of Thailand's finest dishes and is a perfect choice for a romantic night on the town. They have an excellent wine list. The Sukhothai also hosts one of the best Sunday brunches in town, with a room dedicated to chocolate and sweets!

THIPTARA, in the Peninsula Hotel

        This has always been my go-to place for a special celebration, be it a birthday or just to celebrate being in Bangkok.  Actually, I don’t need an excuse; I eat here as often as possible. Everything about this Thai restaurant is perfect – the setting on the Chao Praya River, the innovative Thai food, the service, the cocktails – I could go on and on. Just take my word for it and book a table the next time you’re in town.